7.5. SR 12-21-2009 - Laserfiche WebLink

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y street adds a more traditional play element to the outdoor classroom which may draw public attention. The surface of this area must meet fall-zone and other safety requirements. A planting border defines the space, with the entry located on the north side. An adaptive swing should be included for children who need this accommodation. Greenhouse The existing concrete slab located to the north of Nature Art could house either a 6x8 or l Ox 12 foot greenhouse, allo-King space in the back for storage. The proximity of the greenhouse to the sloped garden and container gardens on nearby steps makes it compatible with these areas, though shade may be a consideration in late fall. A Note about Plant Materials: Divisions between areas will often be provided by low plant materials. More diversity in the choices of plant materials provides more educational value for children. Choosing a variety of textures, colors .and shapes in the plants will provide opportunities for texture or color scavenger hunts, etc. A variety of trees in the space gives children opportunities to learn the stories of many regional trees. A number of engaging educational experiences can be built around these trees. Be aware of winter landscapes when considering plant color and texture. Plants with seed pods, grasses or evergreen trees and bushes will also add interest in the winter months. A Note about Signage: Photos of children using spaces in positive ways should be taken, laminated and posted in areas to cue young children who are not yet able to read. For example, a photo of children building could be posted on the storage cabinet in the Building Area, or a photo of one of the mosaics created in the Nature Art Area could be posted. (See pages 14 and 27 in the Learning With Nature Idea Book for examples of these photo signs.) These photos can be incorporated with permanent wooden signs that label each area in words. These signs can be purchased from the Sourcebook (see page 16) or made locally. Children could also be enlisted to create signs that label trees or plants throughout the space. Signs could contain both children's drawing and writing. The creation of these signs could become a yearly event so that the signs change frequently. Some signs could be semi-permanent and others, such as in the raised planter beds, could change seasonally. A Note about Maintenance: Plants should be chosen to require as little maintenance as possible. As plants and trees are becoming established during the first year, they will require more care, but once established will need little or no special watering. Many of the "loose" materials in activity areas are of nominal monetary value and can be stored in designated outdoor spaces. More costly items can be stored indoors near exterior exits or brought in and out on a cart. The marimba or akambira should be permanently installed in concrete. 5